Teaching Statement

I believe the most effective teaching takes place when content and type of knowledge allow the student to participate in the meaning-making process. Beyond learning facts and developing skills in a vacuum, the endeavor of teaching for learning must make space for the learner, as an individual, to build understanding and think critically about “how this relates to me” and “why is this relevant to my existence.” I believe that as I create a learning environment that presents mirrors and doors for students (whether within a virtual or in-person ecosystem), students will become empowered through skill and knowledge to experience the transformative power of education. Representative of my career and educational multidisciplinary background, I assist students in growing their critical thinking skills and perspective-taking skills.  Most importantly, as a microcosmos of society, my central teaching goal is to assist students to stay with the problem long enough and to learn to take a break when they are unable to understand others but never disengage; to use dialogue and listening strategies to creatively problem-solve when needed and disagree respectfully. 

 Based on my teaching style and preferences, students should expect a warm demander that will challenge their thinking and welcome all of who they are into the classroom. Students will have my sincere interest in their individual experiences. They should expect transparency and an environment of rigor that meets each student where they are at and value the intersectionalities in their lives. Finally, students should expect curious inquiry from me as we delve into content and make real-life connections between content and self. I assume the position of a coach and guide to facilitate learning and my own in each class session. I explicitly express my intention to embark on our learning journey with them, leaning on my expertise and knowledge. I also make an effort to remain intellectually humble and open to learning new things and old things in new ways. 

I acknowledge that each student I collaborate with is different and will need compatible instruction to learn. My commitment to be the best facilitator of learning I can be will keep me dedicated to honoring all students' learning needs and goals to bolster a vision of the social change they can become. Enfocada en el aprendizaje de cada uno pero para todos. I am dedicated to the individual learning of each one for all.